[REVISION HISTORY]

Germany-China diplomatic and trade relations

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2026-11-01 20:36 UTC → 2026-11-02 06:32 UTC · added ~~removed~~

During a state visit to China, German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier addressed economic imbalances and the necessity of a rules-based international order. Speaking at Peking University, Steinmeier noted that while Germany does not seek economic decoupling, European companies face limited market access in China while state-subsidized Chinese products enter European markets. He also urged China to use its influence to help end the war in Ukraine. Following these remarks, President Steinmeier met with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing. Xi Jinping characterized the European Union as a partner and suggested that differences be resolved through dialogue. He called on Germany to provide a fair and non-discriminatory business environment for Chinese firms. Steinmeier reaffirmed Germany’s commitment to the ‘One China’ policy and advocated for free trade and adherence to World Trade Organization rules to combat protectionism. In subsequent meetings, President Xi emphasized that China and Germany should act as partners to promote a stable global economy and a multipolar world order. President Steinmeier expressed readiness to strengthen cooperation in science, technology, artificial intelligence, and environmental protection. Concluding a five-day state visit, Steinmeier addressed the technological gap between Europe, the United States, and China. He argued that Europe must engage with artificial intelligence to maintain influence over international regulatory frameworks. Regarding the war in Ukraine, Steinmeier reported that President Xi expressed no interest in a tripartite summit involving China, Russia, and the United States. Xi characterized the situation as a European conflict that requires Europeans to be present at the negotiating table. Specifically, Steinmeier noted that Xi expressed visible irritation when the possibility of a trilateral summit with the US and Russia was raised. While Vladimir Putin originally suggested such a meeting to discuss nuclear disarmament, and US President Donald Trump indicated openness to the format, Xi maintained that the conflict is a European matter.

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